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According to The Economist, there are currently "300 million people either learning or have learned English in China," (Economist). Some of the problems that the ESL market in China is experiencing are due to overemphasis on rote memorization, and teachers who are not fluent in English themselves. Arguably the biggest issue, which has not gained enough attention, is the lack of creativity incorporated into ESL classrooms. 

Why is creativity in the classroom important?

As teachers promote more creative thinking or creative activities in the classroom, they are encouraging both flexibility and adaptability (Pugliese, 2010). These are essential tools that students will need not only for life in general but specifically, for learning a new language. No language is spoken exactly as a textbook has dictated so it is crucial that students confront the language with a creative mindset. This gives them the ability to manipulate the language to better suit a given situation or circumstance. Additionally, this will allow the English learners to move from a memorized script to developing a way of thinking in English, which will promote a deeper understanding of the language and culture. Being able to think creatively allows students of any age to think about what they are learning with an entirely different perspective. This is why learning a new language creatively is so important.

No language is spoken exactly as a textbook has dictated so it is crucial that students confront the language with a creative mindset.

How can teachers promote creativity in the classroom?

There are many ways of promoting creativity in the classroom. Whether it is changing the seating arrangement of the classroom, or having your students express their ideas through a poem, creativity comes from taking risks and avoiding routine. Encouraging collaborative work, as well as individual work, will foster a group-learning environment in which students can learn from each other. As Chaz Pugliese stated in his book, Being Creative, "being creative is a decision" that teachers make and it is by no means something a teacher has to be born with (Pugliese, 2010). All that being a creative teacher requires is an open mind, the ability to recognize whether or not your students are engaged, and the dedication to help them get there. 

By Natalie Mahabir

Sources

R.L.G, 2011. 'How Many English Learners in China?', The Economist. September 1, 2011. https://www.economist.com/blogs/johnson/2011/09/english-china

Pugliese, Chaz, 2010. "Being Creative: The challenge of change in the classroom". Delta Teacher Development Series. 7-15

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